Choosing to Live is the first self-help guide addressed to those who are considering suicide. In an empathetic nonjudgmental tone, the authors provide tools to help readers assess the risk and understand the factors that reinforce suicidal talk and behaviors. A step-by-step program for change shows how to replace negative beliefs and develop alternative skills for solving problems. For professionals who are helping seriously depressed clients, Choosing to Live offers the clear guidance of a treatment manual plus readings and exercises for clients to do at home.
This book has been awarded The Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies Self-Help Seal of Merit — an award bestowed on outstanding self-help books that are consistent with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) principles and that incorporate scientifically tested strategies for overcoming mental health difficulties. Used alone or in conjunction with therapy, our books offer powerful tools readers can use to jump-start changes in their lives.
Thomas E. Ellis, Psy.D., is an associate professor in the Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry at the West Virginia University School of Medicine.
Cory F. Newman, Ph.D., is clinical director of the Center for Cognitive Therapy and an assistant professor at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
“This book tackles, head-on, a significant, high-priority clinical problem that many patients and therapists dread and avoid. It offers cool, clear thinking, immensely helpful to both patient and clinician, and dozens of practical, down-to-earth suggestions. A brave and extremely sensible book from which I learned quite a bit. I am delighted to have this ‘weapon’ in my armory when I work with suicidal patients.”
—Jacqueline B. Persons, Ph.D., Director, Center for Cognitive Therapy, Oakland, California
“Tom Ellis and Cory Newman have written a wonderful book. The writing is clear and the message in important. The authors are gifted clinicians, and their empathetic concern for depressed and suicidal people comes through on every page. Anyone who has contemplated suicide and anyone with a suicidal loved one will profit from the straightforward and helpful suggestions in this book.”
—Danny Wedding Ph.D., M.P.H., Director, Missouri Institute of Mental Health
“In the best tradition of giving psychology away, this easy-to-read book can help suicidal people understand their suffering while they take charge of their own healing. Some readers will need additional professional help, but all with benefit from Choosing to Live’s message of hope and reassurance that suicide is not the answer.”
—Paul G. Quinnett, author of Suicide: The Forever Decision